Frances Beinecke

Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), New York, USA

Frances Beinecke is the president of NRDC. NRDC, one of the United States’ most influential environmental action groups, uses law, science and the support of 1.3 million members and online activists to advance comprehensive solutions to today’s biggest environmental challenges.

“To be in this business, you have to be an optimist. You have to believe that change is possible and that you’re part of the solution to getting that change in place.”

Ms. Beinecke received a bachelor’s degree from Yale College and a master’s degree from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. She now co-chairs the Leadership Council of the Yale School of Forestry, is a member of the Yale School of Management’s Advisory Board and a former member of the Yale Corporation.

Ms. Beinecke has received the Rachel Carson Award from the National Audubon Society, the Distinguished Alumni Award from Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, the Annual Conservation Award from the Adirondack Council, and the Robert Marshall Award from the Wilderness Society.